D-Orbit - D-轨道
"Enabling the space economy"
Italian space logistics company developing orbital transfer vehicles and in-orbit services to deploy and manage satellite constellations.
D-Orbit is an Italian private aerospace company founded in 2011 by Luca Rossettini and Renato Panesi, headquartered in Fino Mornasco, Como, Italy. The company specializes in space logistics and in-orbit transportation services. Its flagship product, the ION Satellite Carrier, is an orbital transfer vehicle capable of hosting multiple satellites, transporting them to precise orbital slots, and deploying each individually enabling cost-effective and accurate constellation deployment.
D-Orbit has conducted commercial ION missions since September 2020, serving customers including Planet Labs, EnduroSat, Elecnor Deimos, SatRevolution, and Kleos. The company maintains offices in Portugal, Greece, the UK, and the US. D-Orbit is the world first certified B-Corp space company and in 2025 announced a strategic combination with Planetek Group to expand AI-powered in-orbit data processing capabilities.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
ION Satellite Carrier
Orbital transfer vehicle that hosts multiple satellites, transports them across orbits, and deploys each to a precise orbital slot.
Contact D-Orbit
WEBSITE
https://www.dorbit.spacePHONE
+39 02 3792 0900HEADQUARTERS
Italy
Company Facts
Founded
2011
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
Europe
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
Certifications & Memberships
Terra Drone's Domestic Interception Drone 'Terra B1' Passes Defense Test, Moves to Mass Production Phase
On August 25, 2026, Terra Drone announced that its domestic interception drone, 'Terra B1', successfully passed the demonstration test conducted by the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) and will advance to the mass production phase. This program aims to equip the Self-Defense Forces with effective drone countermeasures in response to the increasing security threats posed by attack drones. The significance of this development lies in the growing need for cost-effective defense solutions against low-cost attack drones, such as the Shahed UAVs used extensively in the Middle East. The ATLA's requirements for the 'Terra B1' included various performance metrics directly related to operational effectiveness and mass procurement, highlighting the importance of rapid and efficient defense capabilities. Looking ahead, Terra Drone plans to accelerate its production and supply system for the 'Terra B1', initially targeting the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, with future expansions to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The ATLA has indicated a swift timeline for procurement, with contracts expected to be finalized by late August 2026, and delivery anticipated around September 2026. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Hyundai's Atlas Robot Deployment Sparks Labor Concerns in Korea, Not in the US
Hyundai Motor Group plans to deploy Atlas humanoid robots at its Georgia plant in 2028, highlighting a significant labor debate between Korea and the US. In Korea, union workers are advocating for job protections amid rising automation concerns, while no organized resistance has emerged in Hyundai's nonunion US factories. The Korean union has raised issues regarding the impact of physical artificial intelligence and robotics during labor negotiations, seeking transparency and safeguards against job losses. Although the union has not outright rejected the technology, a tentative agreement acknowledges the necessity of AI and robotics for Hyundai's competitiveness, emphasizing shared information and joint management of the transition. In contrast, the US lacks a comparable collective response, attributed to the weak presence of organized labor in the South and Hyundai's expanding workforce. Experts question whether the current calm will persist as humanoid robots transition from demonstrations to actual factory operations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
All News
Goodfire Launches Silico Platform to Enhance AI Interpretability and Research Access
Goodfire, an AI lab based in San Francisco, has made its Silico platform publicly available, aiming to improve AI interpretability. This initiative includes a $1 million grant program for academic and nonprofit researchers to utilize Silico's tools, which focus on mechanistic interpretability to understand AI models better. The significance of this development lies in its potential to democratize access to advanced interpretability techniques, previously limited to elite labs. By enabling researchers and startups to explore AI model behaviors, Goodfire seeks to foster safer and more powerful AI systems, addressing the urgent need for transparency in AI decision-making processes. Looking ahead, the widespread adoption of Silico could transform how AI models are developed and understood. As researchers like Cameron Berg leverage these tools to accelerate scientific inquiry, the implications for trust in AI and its applications across various fields could be profound. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Ai-interpretability Ai Science
Microsoft Teams Users Report Inability to Join Meetings on August 26
On the morning of August 26, reports emerged on X regarding users being unable to join meetings on Microsoft Teams. Although Microsoft has not issued an official outage notice, numerous users began reporting issues around 9 AM, and as of 10:30 AM, the problems appeared to persist. Posts on X included comments like 'Is there a Teams outage?' and 'I couldn't join the meeting,' leading to 'Teams outage' trending on the platform. This incident is significant as it highlights ongoing reliability issues with Microsoft Teams, which has faced similar challenges in the past. Notably, on July 24, a similar outage affected users in the Asia-Pacific region, preventing them from joining meetings and calls. The current situation raises concerns about the platform's stability, especially for organizations that rely heavily on Teams for communication and collaboration. Looking ahead, it will be important to monitor Microsoft's response to this outage and whether they will provide updates or solutions for affected users. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Ancient Egypt's Desert Sands Once Home to Sharks Millions of Years Ago
Recent findings suggest that millions of years before the construction of the pyramids, the desert sands of Egypt were once part of a marine environment inhabited by sharks. This discovery sheds light on the ancient ecosystems that existed in the region, providing valuable insights into the geological history of Egypt. Understanding the prehistoric marine life that thrived in what is now a desert highlights the dramatic changes in climate and geography over millions of years. This knowledge is crucial for researchers studying the evolution of marine species and the impact of environmental changes on biodiversity. As research continues, scientists are expected to uncover more about the ancient marine ecosystems of Egypt. Future studies may focus on fossil records and sediment analysis to further understand the extent of marine life in the region and its implications for current biodiversity and climate change discussions.
Culture
XPeng Secures $900 Million for Robotics Business, Valued at $6.3 Billion
XPeng has successfully raised over $900 million for its robotics division, achieving a post-money valuation exceeding $6.3 billion. This funding marks the largest single-round private capital raise in China's embodied AI sector, with contributions from IDG Capital, Gaorong Ventures, Tencent, and Alibaba. The capital will support the development of robotics hardware and software, training AI models, and expanding production facilities. This financing is crucial as XPeng prepares for the mass production of its IRON humanoid robot, expected to begin by the end of 2026. The IRON robot, designed for various applications, boasts 76 degrees of freedom and is powered by three Turing AI chips, enabling autonomous operation. The initial deployments will occur at XPeng stores and campuses, with a broader commercial launch planned for 2027 in both China and international markets. Looking ahead, XPeng's IRON humanoid robot is positioned as a key player in the global humanoid robotics market. The company's strategy leverages its automotive manufacturing expertise to enhance robotics production, aiming to create a self-reinforcing cycle of data generation and model deployment. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Automotive Humanoids News Robotics alibaba china robotics
Wits University and University of Bordeaux Achieve Breakthrough in Optical Data Transmission
Researchers at Wits University in South Africa and the University of Bordeaux in France have successfully transmitted optical data through turbulent air without loss. This groundbreaking experiment demonstrates that atmospheric distortion can be ignored by encoding information into the topological properties of light, specifically using skyrmions. This advancement is significant as it addresses one of the longstanding challenges in telecommunications: the chaotic nature of Earth's atmosphere that disrupts light signals. Traditional methods often require complex systems to correct for these distortions, but the new approach allows for reliable data transmission even in adverse conditions. Looking ahead, the implications of this research could revolutionize optical communication systems, making them more efficient and less reliant on expensive technology. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Innovation
Libiao Robotics Enhances Arvato's Fashion Ecommerce Fulfillment with Advanced Sorting System
Libiao Robotics has implemented a flexible robotic sorting system for Arvato Türkiye, enhancing its ecommerce fulfillment capabilities at the Platform S distribution center in Istanbul. This investment aims to address the challenges of high SKU counts and fluctuating order volumes in the fashion retail sector. The new modular 3D Sorter features 66 autonomous robots and 14 shuttle induction stations, capable of processing up to 3,700 items per hour. This system not only increases sorting capacity but also allows for greater agility in responding to customer demands, reducing the need for traditional conveyor systems. Looking ahead, the successful deployment of this robotic solution within six months highlights the potential for rapid automation in logistics. As ecommerce continues to grow, Arvato's investment in Libiao's technology positions it to adapt to future demands and maintain competitive advantages in the market.
AMR and AGV Automation Systems and Shuttles Conveying and Sortation eFulfilment Magazine Features Materials Handling
Advancements in Smart Solar Technology Enhance Off-Grid Power Efficiency
Recent developments in solar technology focus on optimizing the use of photovoltaic (PV) surfaces rather than merely increasing the number of solar panels. This is particularly vital for off-grid systems, where every watt is crucial for remote locations such as agricultural facilities and telecommunications sites. Innovations like bifacial photovoltaics (PVs) allow for greater energy capture by utilizing both the front and back surfaces of the panels, leading to increased electricity production. The significance of these advancements lies in their potential to improve energy management and efficiency in off-grid applications. Bifacial modules can enhance energy generation by 9% to 15% based on ground conditions, with optimal performance observed with reflective surfaces like white gravel. This shift in focus from traditional monofacial panels to bifacial technology represents a critical evolution in solar energy systems, particularly for users without grid access. Looking ahead, the integration of high-efficiency cell architectures, such as TOPCon and heterojunction technologies, alongside bifacial configurations, promises even greater energy capture. The International Energy Agency indicates that efficiencies exceeding 60% on the rear side of bifacial cells are achievable, highlighting the importance of design and installation in maximizing solar energy potential. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Energy Infrastructure Technology battery storage bifacial solar panels energy storage
DJI Osmo Action 6 Cameras Successfully Document Rocket Launch and Recovery
DJI showcased the resilience of its Osmo Action 6 cameras by sending 12 units aboard LandSpace's Zhuque-3 rocket during China's first successful land-based orbital booster recovery on August 19. Remarkably, one camera captured the entire mission in a single, uninterrupted video, providing a unique first-person perspective from liftoff to landing. This demonstration highlights the durability of the Osmo Action 6, which withstood extreme temperatures of 400°C to 500°C and intense vibrations during the flight. The footage serves as a valuable engineering tool for LandSpace, allowing engineers to analyze the rocket's recovery sequence and performance throughout the mission. The cameras recorded continuously, even during a communications blackout, ensuring that all critical moments were preserved. DJI's advanced stabilization technology contributed to the high-quality video, making it a significant achievement in showcasing the capabilities of consumer-grade action cameras in extreme conditions.
News
ROBOTTODAY WEEKLY August 17 – 21, 2026
This week in robotics: Unitree surges 629% in its Shanghai STAR Market debut at a $66 billion valuation, Nevada approves 7,000 robotaxis, Amazon Prime Air expands to nearly 500 US cities, and Beijing's World Robot Conference marks the industry's pivot from spectacle to scale. August 17–21, 2026.
Inside Saga Robotics: UVC Light vs. Crop Disease
Saga Robotics CPO Damian Flynn on the Thorvald platform's UVC treatment system, its jump from UK strawberries to California wine grapes, and why he's “incredibly bullish” on applying automation and robotics into industries “most chaotic environment.”
WAIC Review 3/4: What Scientists and Skeptics Really Think About Embodied AI: The Sober Voices at WAIC 2026
UCL and HKUST researchers, plus robotics CEOs, challenged embodied AI hype at WAIC 2026, citing generalization limits and no third-party evaluation standard.
AGRICULTURAL ROBOTICS SERIES — Company Directory 2026
Access the definitive 2026 directory of 150+ agricultural robotics companies. A comprehensive reference guide covering autonomous tractors, harvest automation, precision weeding, and AI data platforms across the global agtech ecosystem.
FUTURE WARFARE | Air - Collaborative Combat Aircraft, Drone Motherships & the Autonomy Race Above the Battlefield
Anduril’s YFQ-44A Fury flew its first semi-autonomous mission on 31 October 2025 — 556 days from contract to flight. By February 2026 it was carrying live missiles and swapping autonomy software mid-flight. China’s Jiutian drone mothership flew on 11 December 2025, capable of releasing over 100 loitering munitions from its internal bay at 15,000 metres. And the U.S. Air Force is standing up its second experimental one-way attack drone unit for mid-2026. This article maps the most consequential aerial autonomous systems competition in history: the CCA programme that will determine U.S. air dominance in the 2030s, the Valkyrie’s surprising rebirth, the A-GRA open-architecture breakthrough, and the Chinese drone mothership that has no Western equivalent.
CONSTRUCTION ROBOTICS | INSPECTION, SCANNING & DIGITAL TWIN
Inspection, scanning, and digital twin robots are construction's widest adoption curve. BCA-mandated drone façade inspections in Singapore, DroneDeploy's 3M+ sites, Boston Dynamics Spot Cam 2, and Exodigo's $214M funding define the segment. Key stat: Inspection/scanning commands 30% of construction robot applications (FactMR, 2025; unverified).
China vs. The World: A Space Robotics Competitive Analysis
A domain-by-domain competitive benchmark of China versus the international space robotics field — covering on-orbit servicing, lunar ISRU, space station
China's 15th Five-Year Plan and the Space Robotics Imperative
China's 15th Five-Year Plan names aerospace a strategic pillar industry alongside semiconductors and sets hard mission schedules — Chang'e-7, Chang'e-8, crewed lunar landing — that make space robotics one of the most consequential engineering battlegrounds of the late 2020s.
Space Robot - Killer App: The $30B Satellite Servicing Market
Orbital servicing is transforming space economics: $2B wasted annually on premature satellite deaths. Market growing from $500M to $20-30B by 2040. Deep dive into Astroscale, Northrop Grumman MEV, and the business of satellite refueling and debris removal.
Space Robotics: The 2026 Breakout
Space robotics transforms in 2026 as Starship cuts launch costs 96%, AI enables autonomy, and satellite servicing demand explodes. The breakout year explained.
